18.3
FreeOCR.AI converts photos, scans, and screenshots into editable text through OCR.
Free planWebAPImacOS
Best OCR Tools in 2026
OCR tools convert text in images or scanned documents into digital text you can work with. They can be useful for extracting words from paper records, screenshots or other image files. Compare the platform you need before choosing. The tools listed here run on web, API, macOS, Windows, self-hosted setups or Linux; if you need an Android app, check the individual tool's platform details.
28.1
Open-Capture captures documents, extracts information with OCR and AI, and exports results to management software.
Free planOpen sourceWebAPILinux
37.5
ScanScan, also known as Baimiao, extracts text from images and scans documents.
AndroidiOSWeb
- 4
NewOCR
NewOCR is a web OCR service that converts scanned documents and images into editable text, with a REST API for file-based requests.
Free planWebAPI7.3$0.50 one-time - 5
i2OCR
i2OCR extracts text from images and scanned PDF documents in a web browser, with no installation required.
Free planWeb7.2Free plan - 6
Scribe OCR
Scribe OCR recognizes text in images and helps turn scanned material into digitized documents.
Free planWebSelf-hosted7.0Free plan - 7
OCR4all
OCR4all is free, open-source software for recognizing historical printed and handwritten material.
Free planWebLinuxmacOSSelf-hosted7.0Free plan - 8
OnlineOCR
OnlineOCR is a web OCR service that turns scanned PDFs, faxes, photographs, and camera images into editable or searchable documents.
WebAPI6.9 - 9
Tungsten Power PDF
Tungsten Power PDF is a paid PDF application for creating, editing, converting and annotating documents.
AndroidiOSWebmacOS6.9From $179 a month - 10
DocuOCR
DocuOCR is a web service that extracts text and structured data from invoices, contracts, receipts, forms, statements, IDs, and other documents.
Web6.8From $24 a month - 11
PaperSurvey.io
WebAPI6.8From $200 a year - 12
WatchOCR
Free planWebLinux6.6Free plan - 13
OOCR
Free planWeb6.5Free plan
Choosing well
Check platform support
The category includes web tools, APIs, macOS and Windows software, plus self-hosted and Linux options. Match the platform to where your scans and image files are stored.
If you plan to use a phone or tablet, verify Android support in the tool's own details before signing up.
Compare free and paid access
A free plan is available from tools such as i2OCR, Scribe OCR, OnlineOCR, NewOCR, WatchOCR, OOCR and ScanScan. FreeOCR.AI uses a freemium model, while DocuOCR and PaperSurvey.io are paid services.
Check the limits and billing terms shown by the provider. OnlineOCR lists paid access from $9.95, DocuOCR from $24 per month on annual billing, and PaperSurvey.io from $16.67 per month on annual billing.
Use a trial when offered
A free trial can help you check whether a service fits your workflow before paying. PaperSurvey.io lists a 14-day trial and does not offer a free plan.
Consider code access
Open-source code is available from tools in this category. If you need to read, change or host the code yourself, check the individual project's licence and deployment details.
Look for the right connection
An API may suit an automated workflow, while a web app can be simpler for occasional uploads. Self-hosted and Linux options can matter when you want to run the software in your own environment.
Questions people ask
Do these OCR tools have Android apps?
The listed platform facts cover web, API, macOS, Windows, self-hosted and Linux. Check each tool's details for Android support before choosing it for a phone or tablet.
Can I use an OCR tool for free?
Yes. Tools on the list offer free plans, including i2OCR, Scribe OCR, OnlineOCR, NewOCR, WatchOCR, OOCR and ScanScan. FreeOCR.AI is listed as freemium.
Are any OCR tools open source?
Open-source code is available from tools in this category. Review the specific project's licence and hosting requirements before using it.
Which OCR tools offer a free trial?
PaperSurvey.io lists a 14-day trial. Trial availability can differ by service, so check the provider's current terms.
What platforms are represented?
The category includes web, API, macOS, Windows, self-hosted and Linux platforms. Confirm the exact platform support for the tool you plan to use.